to autograph / sign
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to autograph
To put one's name or mark on something in order to confirm authorship, authenticity, or presence, especially on works of art, books, or official documents.
Die Autorin wird nach der Lesung Bücher für ihre Fans signieren.
The author will autograph books for her fans after the reading.
Although 'signieren' looks like the English 'to sign', in German it is used almost only for autographs on books, photos, or works of art. It is not used for signing contracts or official documents.
Der Fußballstar signierte nach dem Spiel die Trikots seiner Fans.
After the game, the soccer star autographed his fans' jerseys.
The verb 'signieren' (to autograph/sign) is closely related to the noun 'die Signatur' (signature). A signature is the name or mark that one leaves when signing or autographing something.
Die Signatur des Künstlers befindet sich in der unteren rechten Ecke des Bildes.
The artist's signature is in the lower right corner of the painting.
Typically, things that have personal or artistic value are autographed. Common objects are: a book, a photo, a work of art, or a T-shirt.
Er ließ sich sein neues Album von der Sängerin signieren.
He had his new album autographed by the singer.
to draw / sign
For official documents, zeichnen and signieren can both refer to adding a signature. Zeichnen sounds more formal or technical and emphasizes the official completion. Signieren places more emphasis on the personal signature and is also often used for books and works of art.
Die Ministerin signierte die Urkunde mit ihrem vollständigen Namen.
The minister signed the deed with her full name.
Die Ministerin zeichnete die Urkunde im offiziellen Verfahren.
The minister signed the deed as part of the official procedure.
